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Polar Bear Paws are a delightful candy treat that perfectly balances sweet, salty, chewy, and crunchy in one irresistible bite. These homemade candies are loaded with roasted peanuts and soft caramel, coated in a rich layer of creamy white chocolate. Think of them as the cozy winter cousin to the classic turtle candy, but with a sweet vanilla twist.

Whether you’re making these for a festive holiday tray, a wintry bake sale, or just a cozy weekend treat, Polar Bear Paws are surprisingly easy to whip up and even easier to devour. The mix of textures makes them endlessly satisfying, and once you try one, you might find yourself making a double batch next time.

Why You’ll Love This Polar Bear Paws Recipe

These little clusters are dangerously good. The soft chew of buttery caramel paired with the crunch of salty peanuts is already perfection—but when you envelop it all in sweet, creamy white chocolate, they become downright addictive. You don’t need a candy thermometer, a stand mixer, or even any baking. It’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing favorite.

They also make thoughtful homemade gifts. Just pop a few into a decorative tin, and you have a deliciously personal present that anyone would be thrilled to receive.

What Kind of White Chocolate Should I Use?

For the creamiest result, use high-quality white chocolate melting wafers or baking bars. Cheaper chips can sometimes seize or taste overly sweet without that silky finish. Ghirardelli melting wafers or almond bark are great choices if you want a smooth coating that sets well. Avoid candy coating that tastes artificial—it’ll show in the final bite.

Ingredients for the Polar Bear Paws

To make these no-bake caramel nut clusters, you don’t need a long list of ingredients, but the quality and combo make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

• White Chocolate Melting Wafers
• Soft Caramel Candies
• Heavy Cream
• Roasted Salted Peanuts
• Butter
• Sea Salt (optional for topping)

The white chocolate melting wafers provide a smooth, candy-like shell that holds everything together. Using soft caramel candies (like Werther’s soft caramels) makes melting easy and keeps the texture perfectly gooey. Heavy cream helps soften the caramel into the ideal dipping consistency. Roasted salted peanuts bring the essential crunch and salty contrast. A bit of butter adds richness to the caramel, and sea salt on top adds that little pop if you like your sweets with a touch of savory.

How To Make the Polar Bear Paws

Step 1: Melt the Caramel Mixture

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the soft caramel candies, heavy cream, and butter. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth. This usually takes about 2 minutes total.

Step 2: Stir in the Peanuts

Fold in the roasted salted peanuts while the caramel is still warm and pliable. Mix until the peanuts are fully coated.

Step 3: Drop Clusters onto Parchment

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop spoonfuls of the caramel-peanut mixture onto the sheet, forming small mounds. Let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to slightly firm up.

Step 4: Melt the White Chocolate

In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate wafers in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.

Step 5: Coat the Clusters

Using two forks, dip each caramel-peanut cluster into the white chocolate and gently shake off the excess. Place them back on the parchment paper to set.

Step 6: Optional Sprinkle and Set

While the coating is still wet, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each candy if desired. Let the Polar Bear Paws cool until the chocolate is fully set. You can pop them in the fridge to speed it up.

How to Store and Serve Polar Bear Paws

These candies make for an easy treat to prep ahead, and they store wonderfully. You can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If your kitchen tends to get warm or humid, store them in the fridge and let them come to room temp before serving for best texture.

This recipe makes about 20 to 24 clusters, depending on the size you scoop. They’re perfect for cookie trays, holiday parties, or just a little weekday pick-me-up with coffee or tea.

What to Serve With Polar Bear Paws?

Hot Cocoa or Mocha

The rich sweetness of these candies goes so well with a warm drink. Try pairing them with a homemade hot cocoa or even a bold espresso.

Salted Caramel Ice Cream

If you’re making dessert platters, add a scoop of salted caramel or vanilla ice cream alongside a couple Polar Bear Paws.

Coffee or Latte

The nutty caramel flavor enhances the boldness of coffee. It’s a match made for cozy winter mornings.

Fresh Berries

Adding a few raspberries or strawberries on the side gives your dessert a tart bite that cuts through the sweetness.

Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

Double down on sweet and salty with a handful of chocolate-covered pretzels to accompany the paws.

Mini Cheesecake Bites

For a party platter, mix Polar Bear Paws with mini cheesecake bites to offer variety in texture and richness.

Apple Slices with Cinnamon Sugar

If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, crisp apple slices with cinnamon pair well with caramel flavors.

Want More Candy Ideas with a Twist?

If you love Polar Bear Paws, here are some more creative candy recipes you can try next:

• Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons
• Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars
• Bunny Butt Oreo Balls
• Irresistible Peanut Butter Truffles

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use dark chocolate instead? Did you toss in a few chopped almonds or try cashews?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and easy sweets on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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